Think cosmic vibes from a new altitude? China just kicked off a mega astronomy project on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau—aptly nicknamed the “roof of the world.” 😎🔭
The centerpiece? A 15-meter SubMillimeter Telescope dubbed XSMT, sprouting in Delingha, Qinghai Province in the Chinese mainland’s northwest at 4,800 m above sea level. Led by the Purple Mountain Observatory under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the project’s goal is to wrap up by 2027. 📅✨
Why submillimeter waves? These are super-short signals (0.1–1 mm) that slip through cosmic dust invisible to optical telescopes. They reveal the secret choreography of interstellar dust, molecular gas clouds, and the earliest steps of star and planet formation. Think of it as X-ray vision for the universe! 🌌🔍
High-altitude, low humidity & minimal human noise make this plateau a dream site for such observations. With water vapor levels barely budging, XSMT will get clearer cosmic snapshots than ever. 📸💧
From tracing galaxy evolution to hunting life-building molecules, this “roof top” telescope is set to supercharge China’s cold-universe game. Stay tuned as we edge closer to unveiling hidden corners of the cosmos! 🚀🌠
Reference(s):
China starts construction of XSMT telescope on 'roof of the world'
cgtn.com
